A seniors residence in downtown Victoria
which has an atmosphere simply like

home.

Rose Manor Seniors Residence
O A K B AY K I WA N I S

•

CONNECTOR magazine is published six times a year by Black
Press and is distributed by The Wilson’s Group. The points of view
or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not
necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or The Wilson’s Group.
The contents of Connector magazine are protected by copyright,
including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without
written consent of the publisher.

Happy New Year/ Gung Hay Fat Choy
s we say good bye to 2017 and look forward to
2018, I want to take a moment to thank our staff
and customers for their support this past year.
Victoria and Vancouver both saw tremendous growth
in visitors, and we expect that will continue in 2018. We
are grateful to all of those visitors and locals who used
our services to get between Vancouver and Victoria with
the BC Ferries Connector, or to travel between Victoria
International Airport and downtown aboard the YYJ
Airport Shuttle. And, of course, thanks to all the tour
groups, conferences, sports teams, choirs, seniors, school
groups and all of the others who trusted their travel with
our charter bus division, Wilson’s Transportation Ltd.
We know how important it is to have service from
a transportation company that is reliable, safe and
trustworthy, and it is our continued goal for 2018 be your
preferred choice of bus travel.
There are exciting things happening in our Sightseeing
Victoria division for 2018. As the growth of international
visitors’ continues, we will be offering our Hop On Hop
Off Reasons To Go tour guide in four additional languages,
including French, Japanese, Mandarin and Spanish. This
will allow more of our guests to create their own tours at
each of our 14 stops along the route, based on their own
interests — whether it be culture, food, nature or shopping.
Also, if you’re a local, check out the Hop On Hop Off
tour during Be A Tourist in Your Hometown on February
23-25 or March 2-4. All tours are FREE with your Be

A

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

A Tourist VIP Card during those weekends. We hope
you’ll check it out, and we’re pretty certain you’ll learn
something new on this fun and informative tour of your
hometown, Victoria.
As for January, we know it can bring terrible winter
weather and driving conditions that are not easy to navigate
for those of us on the West Coast, so remember that we’re
here for you with experienced drivers and reliable equipment
to get you wherever you are going safely.
We look forward to serving you in 2018 and we wish you
and your family a healthy and prosperous new year!
John Wilson
President

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 5

VICTORIA
BY DARCY NYBO

DAY-TRIPPING:

RIDE THE SKI BUS!

“Top of the world” at Mount Washington Alpine Resort.

It's snow time at Mt. Washington
kip the drive and enjoy a bus ride
up to Mount Washington this
snow season. Sit back, savour the
scenery and let Smith Transportation pick
you up and drop you off at the ski hill.
“Whether you need a lift, are travelling
with a large group or simply don’t want
to drive, our ski bus service can pick you
up or drop you off at any of our locations
on southern Vancouver Island,” said
Rick Salewski, Smith Transportation’s
operations manager.
This city-to-ski-hill service is easy to
book online, or you can purchase tickets
in person at the Capital City Station (721
Douglas) in Victoria. Those who aren’t
returning the same day purchase two, oneway tickets to ensure a seat is available
there and back.
“During the ski season, we run a daily

S

6 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

service between Victoria and Mount
Washington with over 10 boarding
locations in between, including stops
in Victoria, Duncan and Nanaimo. We
recommend people get dropped off at their
bus stop, as there is no parking at our pickup areas,” said Salewski.
This comfortable, 47-passenger highway
coach has an onboard washroom and
plenty of room for snow garments, skis and
snowboards. A breakfast stop takes place at
a McDonalds in Nanaimo, where riders can
stretch their legs and grab a coffee.
Another great reason for taking the bus
is safety.
“All of our buses are equipped for
driving on mountain roads,” said Salewski.
“They all have advanced braking systems
and our drivers are used to driving in
mountain conditions.”

“Bus service starts at 5 am, and runs
seven days a week, usually from early
December to early April, except December
25,” said Salewski. “You’ll arrive at Mount
Washington in time to start skiing at 9 am
when the slopes open.”
Once the bus arrives, there’s plenty of
time to get gear on, grab another cup of
coffee and maybe a snack of fresh baked
goods before hitting the hill.
“January is an amazing snow season
[here],” said Sheila Rivers at Mount
Washington Alpine Resort. “There’s
always a great base and the entire mountain
is open for skiing.”
And there’s lots more than downhill
skiing at Mount Washington, she added.
“We have an amazing Nordic area for
cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Most of our trails loop around into
CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Snowboarders all set to ride the bus to Mount Washington.

Strathcona Park. There are alpine to ocean views as you
snowshoe through old growth forests accompanied by Whiskey
Jacks.”
She added: “There’s a fantastic tube with four lanes, and you
ride back up on a covered magic carpet. There are also two terrain
parks at Mt. Washington, one for beginners and one for advanced
riders. And there are plenty of rails, boxes and booters for those
who like to catch some air.”
Mount Washington has some great events planned this snow
season. The Snowshoe and Fondue Tour fun starts in January and
runs every Friday and Saturday until March.
“People gather here at dusk and do a snowshoe tour and then
return to the Raven Lodge for a delicious, three-course cheese
fondue with fellow snowshoers,” said Rivers. “There’s Boomer’s
Week from February 5 to 9. Everyone over 50 gets a package with
lessons, all-day lift tickets, lunch and après ski.”
Also in February, The resort is running Olympic-style events
leading up to and during the Olympics. There will be fun, family
oriented events for all ages and abilities.
When it’s time to head back, riders simply catch the Mt.
Washington ski bus at 3:50 pm. Comfortable seats makes for an
easy ride — or nap — until the bus arrives back in Victoria at 7
pm.
For bus tickets, drop-off locations and times, go online to
mtwskibus.com or call the toll-free reservation line at 1-877-7562544. Booking in advance is recommended.
For information on what’s happening on Mount Washington
Alpine Resort visit mountwashington.ca.
CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 7

MEET THE WILSON’S GROUP TEAM
Where were you born? where did you grow up?

I was born in a town on Cape Breton Island
called North Sydney. When I was five, I
moved with my mother to Halifax, where I
spent the next 20 years growing up.

Who is your family?

DON DENTON PHOTO

Although I grew up as mostly an only child,
I now have four step-siblings: Nickeda (23),
Alivia (10) and twins, Brooke and Blake (8).
Having such a large age gap between my
siblings and I has been fun as I was actively
involved in raising my three youngest stepsiblings until I moved here in April 2016.
When my little sister Alivia and my mother
came to Victoria in May, I took them on the
Grayline Hop-on Hop-off tour and they
LOVED it! I also have a retired show dog
named Janie and a cat who is 16.

What path did you take to get to this job?

I went to Saint Mary’s University and
graduated in 2013 with my B.A. Honours in
Psychology. I have a history of interesting
careers in both the research and administrative
fields. My boyfriend (a naval officer) and I
were posted to Victoria in December of 2016,

Your Lakeside Resort in the City!

ALISHA HISCOTT

Accounting assistant with Wilson’s
for one and a half years.

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Aside from the wonderful people I get to
work with, I love that no day is the same.
I’m always learning new things about the
city, transportation and accounting. This is
definitely a company that supports internal
growth and learning for its employees.

What are your hobbies outside of the job?

I love to go hiking with Janie; we make it a
goal to explore one new place on Vancouver
Island per week.

What’s your favourite thing to do in Victoria?

I love to go to go sightseeing! There is so
much to do and so many beautiful things to
see.

and that’s when I found the Wilson’s Group.
Joining Wilson’s has given me a sense of
belonging here on the island. It has enabled
me to learn about Victoria, Vancouver and
many other areas of BC. I owe it all to the
Wilson’s family/group of employees.

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VANCOUVER
BY LAUREN KRAMER

DAY-TRIPPING:

FUN IN VANCOUVER

Ways to love
VANCOUVER

TOURISM VANCOUVER/ CLAYTON PERRYO

r
e
t
n
i
W
in

Granville Island skyline at dusk.

V

ancouver is an easy city to
enjoy in the summer, when
the views are stupendously beautiful and
the outdoors beckons with the possibility
of great walks, bike rides along the Sea
Wall, beach time and hikes. In the winter,
though, you have to know where to go to
find those indoor gems that will enrich,
inspire and add fun to the dark weekends.
Here are our three top picks for warm, dry,
indoor destinations.
Granville Island is Vancouver’s hub of
artistic creativity and a place where locals
and tourists gather to listen to buskers’
music, eat lunch in the glassed-in food
court overlooking False Creek and shop for
unique objets d’art made on-island.
Offering a mixture of industrial hub,
CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

creative mecca and tourist magnet, the
island’s administrators have a requirement
for all artists: the products they sell must be
made on-island. Consequently, the island’s
studios, workshops and galleries are filled
with artists and artisans plying a broad
array of unique crafts.
Grab an umbrella and explore the
island’s narrow alleyways. Chances
are you’ll see boat builders adding final
touches to gleaming vessels, professional
ceramicists bent over their pottery wheels,
jewellery designers forging wedding and
engagement rings with Canadian diamonds
and glass blowers twisting and turning
their red-hot creations.
If you’re there after-hours, the island is
no less exciting. Comedians compete for

laughs at the Vancouver TheatreSports
Improv Centre, which offers popular,
family-friendly entertainment. Steps away,
the island’s Waterfront Theatre hosts
many of the city’s top theatre producers.
Both performance venues are great
options for evening entertainment after a
dinner at Bridges or Sandbar, two of the
island’s top-rated restaurant venues. Info:
granvilleisland.com
If your kids are complaining that
museums are boring, rest assured, they
won’t complain about this one. The
Richmond Olympic Experience, a $10
million museum at the Richmond Olympic
Oval, is all about hands-on activities and
is filled with cool interactive exhibits and
engaging activities.
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 9

Only hotel in Powell River
offering complimentary
full hot breakfast
of your choice

Breakfast
Wed-Fri 7-11 AM
Sat-Sun 7-1 PM

Free WIFI,
parking &
bike storage

1/2 block from
Townsite Brewing

TOURISM VANCOUVER/ CLAYTON PERRY

BOUTIQUE HERITAGE HOTEL

604.483.4000

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Shopping on Granville Island.

Five sport simulators give families the opportunity to simulate the
thrill of ski jumping on one of Whistler’s world-class runs or to feel the
rush of a bobsleigh speeding on an Olympic trail. In other interactive
exhibits, visitors can see how high and how far they can jump, measure

their hand-eye and foot-eye reaction times, and
score goals in soccer and hockey, comparing their
results to those of Olympic athletes.
The museum is chock full of interesting
artifacts. There ’s a display of Olympic
torches dating back to 1936, and an exhibit
on the evolution of tennis rackets. Don’t
miss the powerful photograph of Olympian
athletes in black bikinis and speedos — an
image that depicts the many different body
types in this global event and the extent to
which physiques have been shaped by their
specific sport.
The Richmond Olympic Experience is open
Thursday through Sunday 10 am to 5 pm, and
10 am to 8 pm on Wednesdays. Admission is
$19.50 for adults with discounts for young adults,
seniors, youth and children. Info: therox.ca or
call (778) 296-1400.
This one’s for grown-ups, particularly
those who appreciate art and anthropology.
Located at the University of British Columbia,
the Museum of Anthropology is home to a
whopping 535,000 archaeological objects.
Designed by Arthur Erickson, the building
overlooks the mountains and ocean and
was inspired by the cedar post-and-beam
construction typical of Northwest Coast
aboriginal villages.

It displays world arts and cultures
with a special emphasis on the First
Nations and other cultural communities
of British Columbia.
A public teaching and research
museum, MOA opened a new gallery in
June 2017, featuring over 200 pieces of
Northwest coast indigenous art.
Admission is $18 for adults with
discounts for students, seniors and

RENAISSANCE

“The Art of Living Well”

families. Come on a Thursday 5 to 9
pm, though, and you can get in for $10.
Don’t leave without walking through
the spectacular UBC campus, and
be sure to stroll through the Nitobe
Memorial Garden, considered one of
the most authentic Japanese gardens on
the continent. It’s an inspiring place to
collect your thoughts all year round.
Info: moa.bc.ca

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Come see what better looks like!
Quality • Community • Location
Call for viewing, Take a Tour
and stay for lunch

anging along the promenade
near Gate 3 of Victoria's Save-OnFoods Memorial Centre is an ode
to the city's stellar sporting legacy. It spans
Royal Navy regattas, a Stanley Cup-winning
hockey team, Olympic champions, and
world-class sports celebrations such as the
1994 Commonwealth Games and 2005 Men's
World Curling Championships.
This is the Greater Victoria Sports Hall of
Fame, where visitors can take in highlights of
the city's sporting history during major events
at the Memorial Centre or, free of charge, on
weekdays during business hours.
“We're quite proud of it,” says Bob Hope,
president of the Greater Victoria Sports Hall
of Fame. “We're always looking for ways to
improve, and it always keeps growing.”
Hope became involved in the non-profit
association following a career devoted to
promoting sports in Victoria. He's been a
keen proponent of soccer programs and
was instrumental in the construction of

H

12 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

the Panorama Recreation Centre in North
Saanich.
During a recent tour through the hall of
fame, Hope points out many of the more than
200 legends immortalized on the arena's walls.
Colourful panels trace the achievements of
Victoria's most notable athletes, coaches,
community builders and sports journalists
dating back nearly 175 years.
Sporting life in the city's early days was
limited to fly fishing and “deer stalking,”
according to one of the illustrated boards.
Cricket was the first team sport officially
played in Victoria, but baseball and rugby had
caught on by the 1870s.
Lawn tennis, golf and lacrosse were all well
established by the cusp of the 20th century
and the city witnessed its first basketball
match in 1897, only five years after the game
was invented. The new century also saw the
dawn of women's team sports with the advent
of a female field hockey group in 1901.
Canada's first artificial ice rink was built
in the city in 1911 and, by 1925, players with

the Victoria Cougars hockey team had their
names engraved on the Stanley Cup after
defeating the Montreal Canadiens 3-1 in a
best of five series. The Cougars, who played
in the Western Canada Hockey League, are
the last non-NHL team to hoist the most
coveted prize in hockey.
The Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame
also keeps an extensive collection of sports
artifacts that aren’t displayed at the Save-On
Foods Memorial Centre, but can occasionally
be spotted as satellite displays at sporting
events throughout the year.
The eclectic collection includes oldschool skates and running cleats, centuryold trophies, a poster for the 1981 Memorial
Cup, a Victoria Shamrocks jersey circa
1978 and an original match program from
the 1955 Mann Cup lacrosse finals between
the Shamrocks and the Peterborough
Trailermen.
“We liked our display and decided to just
keep going,” Hope says, adding that he and
fellow volunteers are always keen to discover
CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

new sports memorabilia. “We aren't a museum, but we like to know
about these things.”
A mural dedicated to the city's impressive contingent of Olympians
dating back to 1908 shows how the city's sons and daughters have
risen to prominence on the world stage during the past century. The
ascent began with William “Torchy” Peden, the fiery-haired local
who competed in three cycling events at the 1928 Olympic Games in
Amsterdam.
Recent decades have seen the city consistently fight above its weight
class when it comes to Olympic hopefuls. Victoria's powerful dynasty
of rowers, mountain biker Alison Sydor, swimmers Ryan Cochrane
and Stephanie Dixon, triathlete Simon Whitfield, as well as sailors
Stacie Louttit and John McRoberts are all honoured in the Greater
Victoria Sports Hall of Fame.
Inductees must meet an extensive list of criteria that takes into
account residency, accomplishments and contributions to the city's
sporting culture. The stiff prerequisites haven't, however, made the
nomination committee's task any easier as there are hundreds of
nominees whose names are awaiting review.
Hope says he isn't surprised by the city's stellar lineup of past and
present contenders. In addition to a mild climate that facilitates yearround training, he says, the city's reputation and sporting legacy
has always been based on something much more important: the
contribution by people with a drive to excel and create an arena for
young athletes to reach their dreams.
“Part of the reason we're so successful is that the volunteer spirit is
so great.” he says. “We've got so much support, and so may people are
instrumental in hosting events and training.”
For more information about the Greater Victoria Sports Hall of
Fame visit the association online at gvshof.ca.

Order ahead for your office lunch or Order ahead for your office lunch or
catered event, & receive 10% off catered event, & receive 10% off
orders over $50
orders over $50

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Order ahead for your office lunch or
catered event, & receive 10% off
orders over $50

Smart, contemporary theatre
made in Victoria.

www.belfry.bc.ca
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 13

FIVE DRIVE
AFTER THE

VICTORIA>VANCOUVER>

VICTORIA
oneTree2017

Where: The Robert Bateman Centre
When: Until January 31

Over 60 pieces of art carved from a single
salvaged tree are on display at The Robert
Bateman Centre, which has partnered with
Live Edge Design to share the story of one
walnut tree.
The tree has been transformed by 53 artists,
offering a visual experience of three-dimensional art inspired
by the natural world. These Canadian artists have created diverse
pieces ranging from nine musical instruments, 23 pieces of
furniture, two doors, 11 sculptures, six bowls, five lights and even
one gnome home. The celebration of the oneTree and its history
will inspire people to explore the importance of appreciating,
protecting and maximizing the use of local trees.

peoples’ traditional songs and dances. Now the company is under
the artistic direction of their daughter, Margret Grenier whose
works redefine and characterize traditional practices so that the
dances continue to be tangible and accessible for new generations.
Flicker is a visually enthralling multimedia experience that uses
projected images and a versatile scrim to portray a young man as he
undertakes an epic journey through forests, underwater and even
into the spirit world on a quest to discover his potential. For tickets,
call 250-386-6121. dancevictoria.com

Shortly after the potlatch ban was lifted in 1951, Ken and Margaret
Harris founded Dancers of Damelahamid to preserve the Gitxsan
14 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

Launched in 1965 and initially attracting 361 entries, Wildlife
Photographer of the Year now garners nearly 50,000 submissions
and is considered the “Oscars” of nature photography. Developed
by London’s Natural History Museum, the exhibit is once
again being shown at the Royal BC Museum. Comprising 100
photographs in 16 categories, the one-metre-square images are
superbly presented as backlit transparencies. The subjects range
from an Arctic fox trotting through the snow with an egg in
its mouth to exotic tropical fish and a pair of seals performing
aquabatics. The need for conservation is again expressed by this
year’s grand prizewinner, Brent Stirton, and his portrait of a black
rhino shot by poachers. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca

Local boy Vince Vaccaro comes home to Victoria to play a show this
January at Capital Ballroom. A singer-songwriter, guitarist and record
producer, Vaccaro has played shows in Canada, Australia and the US,
sharing stages with bands such as Mumford & Sons, Temper Trap,
Awol Nation, Matt Mays, Jay Malinowski & the Deadcoast and Sam
Roberts. Born in Montreal, he grew up in Victoria. He’s released eight
studio albums, four EPs and several singles. The January 20 show will
be opened by popular local folk duo Ocie Elliott.

sugarnightclub.ca and vincevaccaro.com

Issamba

Where: Mary Winspear Centre
When: February 1

Issamba is an exquisite interactive musical spectacle, showcasing
African roots and traditions. Prepare to be captivated from very the first
sound in this unforgettable evening. Immerse yourself in the culture
through African instruments, traditional rhythms and a fine fusion of
dancing styles. Performers include acclaimed balafon master Mamadou
Diabaté and African contemporary dancer Merlin Nyakam the
Enchanter, among many other talented artisans. Let the rhythm move
you and don’t repress the urge to participate! Guests are encouraged to
bring their drums and music skills to share in the joy (some drums may
be provided as well). eventbrite.ca

VANCOUVER
PuSh Festival

Where: Various venues
When: January 16 to February 4

As one of Vancouver’s signature events, The PuSh International
Performing Arts Festival is a feeding ground for creativity, showcasing
mind-blowing performances that are visionary, genre-bending,
introspective, unprecedented and truly cutting-edge. The festival
includes a genius blend of acclaimed international, Canadian and local
artists, linking Vancouver artists and audiences to a groundbreaking
network of performing art. Occurring over three weeks in
mid January, this festival is a broker of global partnerships and
collaborations. Come get rejuvenated and see what these phenomenal
artists have to say. pushfestival.ca
CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Vancouver International Boat Show
Where: BC Place Stadium and the Granville Island Maritime
Market and Marina
When: January 17-21

Calling all boat-lovers down to the largest showcase of the
recreational boating industry in British Columbia. The Vancouver
International Boat Show is an annual event that has been put on for
over 50 years and is the premier boating event in Western Canada.
It takes place in two locations: Granville Island Maritime Market
and Marina, and indoors at BC Place Stadium. Free shuttle buses
and water ferries pass back and forth continuously for the duration
of the five-day show. If viewing vessels, motors and equipment
doesn’t “float your boat,” there are many more activities in
which to indulge, including do-it-yourself seminars, sport fishing
seminars, a Kids’ Zone and even cooking demonstrations.

vancouverboatshow.ca

Chinese New Year Parade
Where: West Pender Street
When: February 16

Experience the cultural joys of China without travelling
abroad with this year’s Chinese New Year Parade, marching
straight through Vancouver’s Chinatown on February 16. What
better way to start out the Year of the Dog than with colourful
dragons, masks, lanterns, costumes, numerous bands and a
dancing trail of pure fun? Weaving down West Pender under
the Chinatown Millennium gate, up Gore Street and back up
along Keefer, this is a celebration that should not be missed.

cbavancouver.ca

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018 15

FIVE AFTER THE DRIVE

BC Home and Garden Show
Where: BC Place Stadium
When: February 21 to February 25

Feeling the urge to vamp up your home and garden this year?
Get a fresh start at the BC Home and Garden Show, with over 400
exhibitors of interior and exterior household products and services.
Occurring at BC Place Stadium in February, this trade show
features all sorts of gadgets and displays, including Jacuzzis, bed
mattresses, furniture, fireplaces, kitchen tools, massage chairs, patio
treasures, home decor, lawn care supplies, window displays — you
name it. Additionally, there will be experts to discuss topics such as
gutter repair, lighting, roofing, financial services, etc., plus cleaning
product demonstrations and home entertainment systems available
to admire and test out. bchomeandgardenshow.com

16 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

Vancouver International Wine Festival
Where: Vancouver Convention Centre and various venues
When: February 24 to March 4

Whine no more, the wine world is coming to Vancouver for one
of the biggest and oldest wine events in the world. The Vancouver
International Wine Festival is Canada’s premier wine show,
featuring more than 160 wineries from over a dozen countries.
Travelling from all around the world, winemakers, proprietors
and senior executives will assemble in Vancouver to showcase
their wines. This year, Spain and Portugal wines will be the main
attraction, with a special tasting room sectioned off for sampling
these treasures. The heart of the festival is the International Festival
Tastings at the Vancouver Convention Centre, where 750 wines
are available for sampling, with an additional 170 wines available at
trade tastings. vanwinefest.ca

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Coming to Victoria?
Traveling by land, sea or air,
The Wilson’s Group has you covered

Comfort food goes way beyond grilled cheese and tomato soup. From sweet to savoury,
breakfast to dinner, we found some delicious comfort foods. Try one or try them all.

John's Place

723 Pandora Ave. Victoria

Benny at
Floyd’s Diner.

Floyd's Diner

721 Station Ave. and 866 Yates St., Victoria

Floyd’s has two locations in Greater Victoria, one downtown
and one in the West Shore. Both are open for breakfast, brunch,
lunch and late lunch. It’s home to the famous Mahoney, a
surprise meal whipped up by the chef, for which you can flip
a coin for to pay double or nothing! This funky diner is fun,
friendly and family oriented. The menu is pure diner fare served
up with a smile, while music from the ‘50s to ‘80s plays in the
background. Soup lovers rejoice — the soup of the day is served
with a Bob Dylan biscuit and comes with a “bottomless” option.
Poutine, burgers, dips, chili and clubs also grace the menus.
The breakfast/brunch menu has everything from Huevos
Incredibalos to the Nelly Frittata.
MUST TRY: The Eggs Benedict here has one of the tangiest,
creamiest hollandaise sauces I’ve ever tasted. Try the traditional
Benny or one made with avocado, brie, chicken or lox and
arugula. They have gluten-free options, and a designated,
gluten-free fryer so you can happily eat the Floyd potatoes.
floydsdiner.ca

18 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

When I asked around about comfort food, John’s Place was
named several times. This diner has been around for over 30
years, serving generations of loyal customers with its quirkily
named menu items. Its dish Cloudy with a Chance of Meatloaf
was featured on the Food Network. Comfort food at John’s Place
includes Bangers and Mash, Perogies ‘n’ Ukrainian Sausage, as well
as meat pies, fish and chips and a variety of appies from calamari
to fried dill pickles. The roast pork is delicious, with the vegetables
stealing the show. Yam, zucchini and carrots with gentle winter
spices, plus a big kale chip, made this one of our favourites.
MUST TRY: The Thai Cashew Chicken exceeds expectations.
John served up this delicious dish inside a slice of pineapple. The
coconut peanut sauce was bursting with flavour. Fresh Thai basil,
butter-sautéed peas with a side of rice rounded out the meal. But
leave some room for dessert as the lemon merengue pie bursts like
sunshine in your mouth. johnsplace.ca

JEthro's Fine Grub

3420 Dunbar and 3455 Fraser, Vancouver

These cosy restaurants are perfect for rainy day eats. There’s sweet
to savoury and everything in between. You’ll find some exotic items
like frog legs and gator tacos, as well as comforting dishes like the
Louisiana-style Gumbo — a delicious combo of house-smoked pulled
chicken and prawns served with grilled corn cakes. The Jethro’s
French toast is the perfect answer to your sweet tooth. It’s battered
with Cinnamon Toast Crunch and griddled up nice and crisp with
warm caramelized cinnamon apples and whipped butter on top.
MUST TRY: I triple dare you to try and finish an order of Jethro’s
Gold Rush Pancakes on your own. I’ve been told entire families
come in and just order this one dish for breakfast. One bite of
this pancake stuffed with bananas, pecans, caramel and streusel
and you’ll be hooked. These monsters (yes there are two) are
easily 12 inches in diameter and hang over the sides of the plate.
They’re topped with more caramel, pecans and streusel and a
generous amount of whipped butter. Come hungry for this one!
jethrosfinegrub.com

Pagliacci’s is a local favourite at the best of times, well known for
its desserts and live music. When it comes to comfort food, it has
that one nailed down too. The menu is as much fun to read as the
food is to eat. With items like Men Who Stare at Goat Cheese, A
Fish Called Wanda, and Sid Caesar, you’re sure to find something
comforting on the menu. Meat, seafood, pasta, salads, gluten free
and vegetarian are all right here. For starters, try the Edgar Allen
Poe’s Crab Cakes, deep fried to crispy perfection and served with a
mild seafood sauce and a spinach leaves.
MUST TRY: The Sofia is a creamy seafood creation that pairs well
with rainy or snowy nights. This mixture of Dungeness crab, rock
crab, shrimp and pine nuts in a white wine cream sauce is comfort
on a plate. In addition, the dish is topped with a generous portion of
smoked salmon. For those who love pasta, but can’t tolerate gluten,
not to worry, it can be prepared with gluten-free noodles as well.
pagliaccis.ca

It’s best to park a few blocks away so you have the chance to
walk off some of the delicious Aussie comfort food found at Moose
Down Under. Try some Roo on a Stick or a Vegemite and Cheese
Sanger (sandwich). We choose something slightly less daring
but wonderfully delicious — the Crispy Spud Rolls are mashed
potatoes in a spring roll wrap, deep fried and topped with cheese,
bacon, chives and sour cream. So yummy! Then there is the Aussie
meat pie, a true Down Under comfort food. Bring out the tomato
sauce to add to this pie! There’s also gravy on the side, just in case.
MUST TRY: The Oz Fries are perfectly deep fried, crispy potato
wedges. Pick one up, dip it into the healthy portion of sour cream.
Then dip again into the sweet chili sauce. It’s a new taste sensation.
If you still have room, try the Mini Lamingtons. These bite-sized
sponge cake cubes are coated with coconut and chocolate icing and
served up with whipped cream. moosesdownunder.com
CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Where are you from and how did you get
to Victoria? I grew up in Toronto. In

Grade 12, I came out West to look at
universities with my dad and one of my
best friends. As soon as I saw UVic I knew
it was the university for me. During school
I used to go home to Toronto for the
summers, but once I graduated I decided
to stay in Victoria and began working in
the music industry.
How did you get into the local music scene? In
my last year of school I took some amazing
courses, including “History of the Beatles”
and “History of Rock and Roll” and had
a fantastic professor, Colleen Eccleston,
who got me started. She introduced to my
first boss, and a six month internship led to
a full time position. From there, I started
working with local musicians including
Jon and Roy and Current Swell when they
were first starting out. I even got to make
some amazing “merch,” including limited
edition Jon and Roy lunch boxes! My career
grew with the bands and I introduced them
to Stephen Franke of Blue Heron Music,
who started managing them. After a quick
Vancouver hiatus, I returned to Victoria and
joined the team. Alongside managing these
great artista, also including Jesse Roper,
Band of Rascals and Carmanah, I program
music down at the Breakwater Bistro
and during the summer, the Breakwater
Barge. Last year I had the opportunity
to join a group of local music industry
veterans to take ownership of the Capital
Ballroom with the goal to turn it into
Vancouver Island’s premier music venue.
Above: Flamingo umbrella from Fan Tan Alley’s The Umbrellatorium & Canery;
suit, OPPOSUITS (opposuits.ca). Opposite page: shoes, Blundstones ($220), from
The Cobbler; OPPOSUITS (opposuits.ca); ADANAC sunglasses (adanacunion.com).
Photographed at The Kraken by The Breakwater (above) and, at right, Ogden Point
Breakwater.
20 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

How does your work influence your personal
style? My signature style has always

been a blazer, usually paired with a band
shirt. Working in the music industry
means I get to meet a lot of new people from
all over the world and it’s always good to
CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

“I’VE GOT A BIG
PERSONALITY SO I NEEDED
SOME SUITS TO MATCH.”
make an impression. I’ve got a big personality so I needed some
suits to match. A couple years ago I discovered a company called
OPPOSUITS and since purchasing my first one, a bright blue
number with red tulips, my collection is now six deep. Now, I get
called out if I’m not wearing one!
What makes you happy? Friends, frosty brews, live music,
Letterkenny and seeing concerts at music venues around the
world.
What do you like to do on a rainy day off? Hunker down and watch a
movie or some crappy TV.
How about a sunny day off? Sunny patio pints with friends, or go and
see some live music. During the summertime in Victoria there seems
to be music all over the city.
What do like to do while you’re riding the bus? I enjoy listening to
music and getting caught up on emails. No worries about texting
and driving on a bus!
Anything else we should know? Support local music!

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eet Murray McMullen, Chef
Concierge and member of Les
Clefs d’Or Canada, who has
lived in Victoria since 1991 and worked at
the Hotel Grand Pacific since 2013. Let’s
ask him about Victoria.

M

Where’s your favourite breakfast spot?

Shine Café, with locations downtown and
the Stadacona Centre at 1548 Fort St.

Where would you schedule a business
meeting?

The Hotel Grand Pacific, of course. We
offer multiple meeting spaces to suit most
groups.

What restaurant (s) really shows off Victoria?

Victoria restaurants have such topnotch
culinary teams, and with so many to choose
from, this is a hard one for me to pinpoint.
Some of the many options that come to
mind are: Il Terrazzo, OLO, Part and Parcel
(bit of a walk or drive from downtown),
Agrius and the Heron Rock Bistro.

Where’s a great place to take children?

The Royal BC Museum — children always
enjoy the interactive adventures there.

What’s a unique-to-Victoria activity?

Watching the tens of thousands of people
who take to Victoria’s Inner Harbour for
the annual Symphony Splash on the holiday
weekend each August. 2018 marks the
29th year the Victoria Symphony orchestra
performs from a floating stage in the
Inner Harbour. There are special guest
performances, ending with a grand finale
performance of Tchaikovsky’s 1812
Overture to fireworks!

Where would find a unique shopping
experience?

Lower Johnson Street and along Oak Bay
Avenue.

Where do you take friends for a drink?

Heron Rock Bistro located in James Bay; it
22 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2018

Murray McMullen, Chef Concierge at Hotel Grand Pacific in Victoria.

has a variety to suit every taste. Steamship
Grill & Bar, with its wonderful heated,
covered patio that overlooks the Victoria
Inner Harbour. Caledonian Distillery &
Twa Dogs Brewery, a 20-minute drive
from the hotel and well worth the visit.

What’s your favourite local wine?

The 2010, 2011 or 2013 Merlot (if you can
source a bottle or two) from Kettle Valley
Winery in the Okanagan; 2015 Salish
Sea White from Sea Star Estate Farm &
Vineyards on Pender Island.

Any suggestions for a romantic day-trip?

Take a 40-minute drive north to the Villa
Eyrie Resort. Enjoy a couple ’s message
and lunch overlooking the coastal
mountains and the Saanich Inlet. On the
drive back, stop and take a walk through
the forest to see Niagara Falls and the old
trestle in Goldstream Provincial Park.
Once back at the Hotel Grand Pacific,
enjoy a scenic carriage ride along the

Inner Harbour to Little Jumbo for some
pre-dinner bites etc... As for dinner,
you’re in the driver’s seat now, as the night
is young.

What’s a great winter activity in Victoria?

Here are a couple to choose from. Enjoy
the lights, ice-skating and a wonderful
dinner at the Butchart Gardens. Take a
day trip to Mount Washington Resort.
Located in the Comox Valley, a 2.5-hour
drive north, where you’re able to enjoy
skiing, snowboarding and tubing. Should
you wish to try snowshoeing; you can rent
equipment at the Raven Lodge. From there,
enjoy the trails in Strathcona Provincial
Park with family and friends.

What’s the craziest question you’ve ever been
asked as concierge?
In my mind there are no crazy questions;
however, this particular one stands out
vividly: “Where can I get the seeds for
those totem poles?”

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

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